by Andrew Kiser
A new management company has taken over the Two Rivers Convention Center and Avalon Theater. Pinnacle Venue Services (PVS) was approved unanimously by the Grand Junction City Council last week.
According to a story published by KKCO 11, Tom Paquette, a managing partner of PVS, said the company was looking at the theater and judging its strengths and weaknesses.
“The big picture is we are bullish on this town. We think they can do more business,” Paquette said to KKCO 11. “We think there already some good events, but we think there can be even more.”
Between the contract PVS and the city, the company has to keep as many current employees as possible. However, three full-time employees have been laid off. Prices for the tickets, food and drink options are going to evaluate.
“Our No. 1 priority is giving the best possible service,” Paquette said to the Daily Sentinel. “It all starts with quality. It doesn’t matter how things are priced if it’s not good.”
When looking at the strengths of what the theater has to offers, Paquette liked what Grand Junction has to offer.
“I was really surprised at how charming the downtown is and everything it has to offer,” Paquette said to KKCO 11.
On Friday, Avalon Theater administrative assistant for the venues, Sarah Kennedy, who was getting ready for a show performed by Judy Collins, is thrilled for the new leadership.
“We’re excited for the transition,” Kennedy said to the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel. “We’re pushing it through. It’s all you can really do when stuff like this happens. It’s time for a change, for sure.”
For some Grand Junction residents, the Avalon is a theater a frequent place for them to go.
“I love going to the Avalon,” Grand Junction resident Manon Jacob said. “Whether it’s for a concert, play or a new movie it’s always a fun night out. The shows are great; it is always a quality performance, it is my favorite theater in town.”
“I feel like I’m taking part in a bit of history whenever I go to the Avalon,” Sara Tourney said.
The Avalon Theater is showing “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” from Tuesday to Thursday. The theater is located at 645 Main St.
